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8 Luxurious European Hotels Worthy of Your Bucket List

Hotel fans, take out your bucket lists (which should always be kept in pockets): you're going to need them. We’re about to elevate (the sometimes mundane) spending of the night in a hotel into a once-in-a-lifetime experience, which is kind of a big deal. Europe is undoubtedly home to some of the world's finest hotels, but those we’re highlighting here are in a class of their own. We're talking iconic character and charm, with such a high level of exclusivity, even Jay and Beyoncé would be lucky to get a room in such a spot on short notice. From hosting legendary celebrity weddings to offering the cover for secret wartime meetings, these eight luxurious European hotels should definitely make your bucket list.

1. Le Meurice, Paris

Used as the Nazi headquarters during the German occupation of Paris, it was from a suite in Le Meurice that the German governor Dietrich Von Choltitz took the call from Hitler to destroy the city before they fled. Thankfully Choltitz was convinced by a Swedish diplomat to disobey the order, leaving Le Meurice and the rest of Paris standing. Decorated in classic Louis XVI decor throughout, the hotel hasn't changed much through its 200-year history. Its spacious period rooms are decorated with luxurious fabrics, with grand marble bathrooms attached; they all come at a handsome price.

2. The Goring, London

If it’s good enough for Her Royal Highness the Duchess of Cambridge -- AKA Kate Middleton -- to stay in on the night before her wedding, The Goring is good enough to add to your list of dream hotel stays. Fit for a princess, the exceptional London hotel oozes Royal pedigree with classic English-style rooms. It also has prime proximity to Buckingham Palace and five-star luxury throughout.

3. Baur au Lac, Zurich

When it’s time to get your regal, old-timey European glamour on, why would you go anywhere else but Baur au Lac, a grand dame set amongst beautiful gardens on the banks of Lake Zurich? During its 170-year history, the hotel has hosted famous faces from Henry Kissinger to Ghandi, and in 1856 it provided the setting for the debut performance of the first act of Wagner’s Valkyrie opera. The hotel features some of the highest room rates in Zurich, one of Europe’s most expensive cities, but you can take solace in the bonus of free minibar goodies in all of Baur au Lac’s elegant guest rooms.

4. Punta Tragera, Capri

Taking time out during World War II, President Eisenhower and Winston Churchill held secret war meetings at the Punta Tragera hotel, perched on top of a cliff just outside Capri town. After discussing the allied efforts, they more than likely did not take a dip in the inviting azure water of the Tyrrhenian Sea below -- but you can. Set in tropical gardens, this private, rustic hotel offers stylish villas with sea views in one of the island's most peaceful locations.

5. Borgo Egnazia, Puglia

After Justin’s love affair with Britney, followed by Cameron Diaz, it was at the hotel Borgo Egnazia in Puglia that Mr. Timberlake committed in matrimony to Jessica Biel. Featuring cream-colored stone walls, chic, stylish rooms, plus a gorgeous private beach, golf course, spa and, fabulous on-site seafood restaurant, the luxury complex is a celebrity haven and the perfect place to drop $6.5 million on your fairytale wedding, just like J&J. The good news is rooms don’t cost quite as much as an A-list wedding.

6. Royal Horseguards, London

Located on the banks of the River Thames, The Royal Horseguards features stunning high ceilings, ornate sculpting, and exceptional craftsmanship throughout its beautiful five-pearl interior. And it has a rich history equal to its good looks. Used as a base for British Secret Service during the First World War and home to the Ministry of Defense during World War II, here secret tunnels run from the hotel to the Houses of Parliament, used to ferry ministers back and forth between the war cabinet. Based on the design of a French Chateau, the luxury hotel is an iconic choice in London.

7. Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona

Embracing a contemporary design, Barcelona’s Mandarin Oriental takes luxury in a different direction from most on this list. Rooms are stylish and minimal, the spa is beautiful, private terraces offer stunning city views from decks covered in shrubbery, and some of the city’s best cuisine can be found in Catalan chef Carme Ruscalleda’s in-house Michelin-starred restaurant, Moments.

8. Hotel d’Inghilterra, Rome

If you’re looking for inspiration for that novel you’re working on, look to Rome’s iconic Hotel d’Inghilterra. A writer’s haven, the hotel has attracted the likes of John Keats, Ernest Hemingway, Lord Byron, Percy Shelley, and Mark Twain to its stunning location beside the Spanish Steps. Rooms are richly decorated and the romantic property has a charming Old World atmosphere. Take to the rooftop garden with paper and pen and enjoy the views that might inspire a masterpiece.

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